Loose, one-seam pants easy to make
Dear Vicki: I love your column and the tips! Do you have a suggestion for a pattern to make the popular but pricey loosefitting pants — picture enclosed?
Also, thanks for the wonderful needles! My tip was the one about using bias tape on towels. I just used some printed tape on a set of mismatched towels, and now I have a new set. It also works very well on a towel that is beginning to fray, to give it a new lease on life. Thanks again. — Sheila G.
Dear Sheila: I have written about this pattern before — the One Seam Pants from Louise Cutting. She needs a new illustration, because the pants can be very dressy if made with silk crepe.
They are called “one seam” because there is no side seam to stitch. This makes them very fast but also great for plaids (no matching). I love to use this pattern to make pj’s for everyone at Christmas.
If you cannot find this pattern at a local store, you can order the pattern online at www. cuttinglinedesigns.com. You will use this pattern many, many times! Louise has updated the pattern to include a view that is tapered for those who don’t want the very full version.
Dear Vicki: I see so many fabrics today that have defective prints and funny places in the weave; I’m getting tired of all the flaws. What is going on? An interested, devoted sewer
Dear Interested: Imperfections are often signs of hand printing with blocks dipped in dye, but if the print is off-grain, you won’t be able to fix that and have a garment that hangs well.
Hand-woven fabrics have irregularities and are an indication of hand-craftsmanship — if you love it, wear it with pride, especially if it is a fine-quality fiber with good hand. But if it is manufactured with inferior fibers, then just avoid the “bargain” and look for better quality — it’s out there, and usually in small, independent shops. Vicki Farmer Ellis is the daughter of nationally recognized authority on sewing Eunice Farmer.